Do You Pan for Gold Nuggets?

On a recent trip to Victoria, B.C., we had the opportunity to learn how to pan for gold nuggets at the Royal BC Museum. A friendly, knowledgable (and patient) volunteer was teaching my children. It was fascinating watching them practice the technique and see their excitement when the dirt and rocks would wash away (along with small gold flakes) and they were left with some precious small nuggets.

I quickly recognized it’s a fine line between rolling the pan too much and everything washing away or not using enough force to allow any of the sludge to escape.

My friend Greg Sutton, a successful entrepreneur, is an expert at “panning for gold”.

Because Greg is naturally curious, interested in people and an insatiable learner, he will always make time to chat with other entrepreneurs. When you listen to others’ challenges and show curiosity, you will gain many “golden” insights and Greg is always panning for nuggets. He actively seeks advice and wisdom from those he trusts.

Greg will remind you that even if you ask for advice, you don’t have to take it! You can still be open-minded, but you must be disciplined to pan for the gold nuggets to make sure the advice is right for you.

By the way, my kids didn’t find gold each time they buried the pan and tried the technique again. They certainly got better each time and they completely enjoyed the experience. I had to drag them away.